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Published by The Penn State Alumni Association

Legends of ’94: The Oral History

Unbeaten, Unstoppable, Uncrowned
An Oral History of the 1994 Penn State Football Team

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Twenty years ago this fall, in just their second season of conference play, the Nittany Lions put together one of the greatest seasons in Big Ten history. They did so with one of the most dynamic offenses ever seen, a star-laden group full of play-makers and future pros. They did it with style, running off a string of blowouts and, on those rare occasions it was necessary, pulling off memorable late-game heroics. They did it with a gritty, overlooked defense and a veteran coaching staff that adapted perfectly to the talent on hand.

To mark the 20th anniversary of Joe Paterno’s last undefeated team, we’re proud to present the definitive oral history of the 1994 Penn State football team. Based on interviews with nearly 30 former Lions—players, coaches, and staff—it’s their story, in their words…

Part 1 goes back to the roots, following the recruiting classes of 1990 and ’91 as they mature from talented prospects into proven leaders who will provide the foundation for greatness.

Part 2 kicks off with the ’94 Citrus Bowl, where an upset of Tennessee hints at the success to come; after an offseason of cohesion and commitment, Penn State opens the ’94 season in dominating fashion; and a closer look at the diverse cast of characters who make up the Lions’ all-time-great offensive line.

Part 3 opens with Penn State’s first ever trip to the Big House, an epic occasion that lives up to the hype; an injury-plagued and overlooked defense shows a knack for answering the call; a Homecoming romp over some cupcake from Columbus; and getting to know the historic collection of skill players who combine for what might’ve been the most unstoppable offense in college football history.

Part 4 goes on the road with a blowout that wasn’t in Bloomington, then travels to Champaign for a crazy hotel stay and a comeback for the ages.

Part 5 marks Penn State’s long-awaited return to Pasadena, and the bittersweet end to a perfect season; dreams of a 1-2 matchup to decide the true champs; and weighing the evidence: best offense ever?

Thanks to each of the 29 former Lions we spoke to (listed below) for sharing their time and stories, and special thanks to Wally Richardson ’96 Lib, ’03 MEd Edu, director of the Football Letterman’s Club, for his help in tracking down so many of his former teammates. —Ryan Jones ’95 Com